Tell Congress: Act NOW to Protect Immigrants

In 2021, the House of Representatives passed legislation that received support from Democrats and a number of Republicans that would provide permanent solutions for Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, and the agricultural workforce. In 2023, it is unlikely that these measures will get a vote in the House.

Congress must act, but it will only act if members know that supporting immigrants is a top priority for their constituents. Call your Senators. Call your Congressional Representative. Tell them that Congress must act NOW in December to pass:

  • the American Dream and Promise Act, a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and TPS holders;
  • the Farm Workforce Modernization Act;
  • the Afghan Adjustment Act.

As many as 2.3 million Dreamers brought to the United States as children are at risk of deportation if Congress does not act. They have grown up here, gone to school here, and many now are essential workers, contributing to and supporting the country they call home.

Almost 400,000 TPS and DED holders, unable to return home because of war and natural disasters, have lived here for years, often for decades. Although about 130,000 of these immigrants are essential workers, they still have no path to permanent residence, no line to wait in.

Congress must pass legislation that would provide Dreamers and TPS holders with certainty – protecting them from deportation and affording them an opportunity to obtain permanent legal status in the United States.

Farmworkers have maintained our food supply and ensured Americans have food on their tables throughout the past two years. Yet as many as 78% of them – including the undocumented, temporary guest-workers, green card holders, and naturalized citizens – were born outside of the United States. The House has passed and now the Senate must pass legislation to reform and modernize our agricultural visa program.

Afghans who worked with U.S. forces before the Taliban takeover of their country remain at high risk. More than 80,000 fled to the United States in 2021. For many, their temporary humanitarian parole status will run out in 2023, leaving them at risk of deportation. Others remain in uncertain exile or hiding within Afghanistan as Taliban forces hunt them down. They need and deserve the protection of the Afghan Adjustment Act.

A majority of Republicans and Democrats across the country support a path to citizenship for Dreamers, for TPS holders, for farm workers, and for Afghan refugees.

NOW is the time to act.

Call your Senators. Call your Congressional Representative. Tell them that Congress must act NOW in December to pass:

  • the American Dream and Promise Act, a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and TPS holders;
  • the Farm Workforce Modernization Act;
  • the Afghan Adjustment Act.

 

Fact Sheet: Temporary Protected Status El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan

This ILCM fact sheet is current as of November 16, 2022. This is not legal advice.

December 6, 2022 UPDATE: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the extension and redesignation of Haiti for TPS for 18 months from February 4, 2023, through August 3, 2024. Those individuals who have already been residing in the United States as of November 6, 2022, will be eligible for TPS under Haiti’s redesignation. DHS will publish a Federal Register notice that will explain the procedure to (re)register. 

Printable PDF version of this fact sheet.

On November 10, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a Federal Register Notice announcing that beneficiaries under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, the 2011 Haiti designation, and the 2013 Sudan designation will retain their TPS while the preliminary injunction in Ramos v. Wolf and the stay of proceedings order in Bhattarai v. Nielsen remain in effect, provided they remain individually eligible for TPS. Their Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) are auto-extended through June 30, 2024.

Country Status of TPS Current End Date

El Salvador

Extended by DHS on Nov. 10, 2022 As long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos remains in effect.

Haiti

  • 2011 designation – extended by DHS on Nov. 10, 2022
  • New TPS designation for Haiti on Aug. 3, 2021.
  • 11.10.22 extension: as long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos remains in effect.
  • 08.03.21 designation: Feb. 3, 2023

Honduras

Extended by DHS on Nov. 10, 2022

As long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos and the existing stay of proceedings order in Bhattarai v. Nielsen remain in effect.

Nepal

Extended by DHS on Nov. 10, 2022

As long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos and the existing stay of proceedings order in Bhattarai v. Nielsen remain in effect.

Nicaragua

Extended by DHS on Nov. 10, 2022

As long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos remains in effect.

Sudan

  • 2013 designation – extended by DHS on Nov. 10, 2022
  • New TPS designation for Sudan on April 19, 2022
  • 11.10.22 extension: as long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos remains in effect.
  • 04.19.22 designation: Oct. 19, 2023

 

What is temporary protected status (TPS)?

TPS is granted by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to eligible foreign-born individuals who are unable to return home safely due to conditions or circumstances preventing their return to their home country.

During the designated TPS period, TPS holders are not removable from the United States and not detainable by DHS based on their immigration status. TPS holders are eligible for an employment authorization document (EAD), and eligible for travel authorization.

What does the extension of TPS for El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan mean?

This extension enables current beneficiaries of the designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, the 2011 Haiti designation, and the 2013 Sudan designation to maintain certain valid TPS documentation.

TPS holders from Haiti or Sudan may also apply under the more recent designations of Haiti and Sudan in 2021 and 2022, respectively, and if granted, will retain TPS in accordance with their grants regardless of any potential end to the Ramos injunction.

This notice automatically extends the validity of TPS-related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs); Notices of Action (Forms I-797); and Arrival/Departure Records (Forms I-94), (collectively “TPS-related documentation”) for those beneficiaries under the TPS designations for El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua, Sudan, Honduras, and Nepal.

Who is eligible for TPS under this extension?

Only current beneficiaries of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua TPS, the 2011 Haiti designation, and the 2013 Sudan designation are eligible for the automatic extension if they otherwise continue to meet eligibility requirements.

How long will eligible individuals have protection under TPS?

TPS is a temporary status. The Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas is extending TPS for current beneficiaries of the TPS designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, the 2011 Haiti designation, and the 2013 Sudan designation as long as the preliminary injunction in Ramos v. Wolf and the stay of proceedings order in Bhattarai v. Nielsen remains in effect. TPS status can, however, be extended.

How long is my EAD valid now?

Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is auto-extended through June 30, 2024.

How do I prove my EAD was automatically extended?

To prove your EAD is extended until June 30, 2024, TPS beneficiaries can show their EADs and the Federal Register Notice to employers to demonstrate that DHS has extended your EAD and employment authorization through June 30, 2024. The Federal Register notice explains how TPS beneficiaries and their employers may determine which EADs are automatically extended.

 

El Salvador

I am from El Salvador and currently have TPS. Do I need to re-register?

Current beneficiaries under the TPS designation for El Salvador do not need to re-register to maintain TPS if they properly re-registered for TPS during one of the following registration periods for El Salvador:

  • 18 through March 19, 2018
  • July 8 through Sept. 6, 2016

I am from El Salvador and do not currently have TPS, may I apply?

Unfortunately, no. This extension only applies to people who currently have TPS under the El Salvador designation. Please contact an immigration attorney to discuss further options you may have.

 

Haiti

I am from Haiti and currently have TPS. Do I need to re-register?

No. Current beneficiaries under the 2011 Haiti TPS designation do not need to re-register to maintain TPS.

If you are a beneficiary of TPS under the August 2021 Haiti designation, this extension does not impact you. Your TPS is still valid. You do not need to re-register. Your EAD is still valid until February 3, 2023.

I am from Haiti and I currently have TPS under the 2011 designation. Should I apply for TPS under the new May 2021 designation?

Maybe. You are allowed to apply under the more recent designation of Haiti in 2021 and if granted, you will retain TPS in accordance with their grants regardless of any potential end to the Ramos injunction. Talk to an immigration attorney to further discuss your specific situation.

I am from Haiti and do not have TPS. Can I apply?

Yes. You may register for TPS under the August 2021 designation. You need to apply before February 3, 2023.

 

Honduras

I am from Honduras and currently have TPS. Do I need to re-register?

Current beneficiaries under the TPS designation for Honduras do not need to re-register to maintain TPS if they properly re-registered for TPS during one of the following registration periods for Honduras:

  • May 16 through July 15, 2016
  • 15, 2017, through Feb. 13, 2018
  • June 5 through Aug. 6, 2018

I am from Honduras and do not currently have TPS, may I apply?

If you never had TPS for Honduras, you cannot apply for TPS now. If you previously had TPS for Honduras, but you have not re-registered during at least one of the above registration periods, DHS says you should file now and explain your reasons for filing late. You can also contact an immigration attorney to discuss further options you may have.

 

Nepal

I am from Nepal and currently have TPS. Do I need to re-register?

Current beneficiaries under the TPS designation for Nepal do not need to re-register to maintain TPS if they properly re-registered for TPS during one of the following registration periods for Nepal:

  • May 22 through July 23, 2018
  • 26 through Dec. 27, 2016

I am from Nepal and do not currently have TPS, may I apply?

If you never had TPS for Nepal, you cannot apply for TPS now. If you previously had TPS for Nepal, but you have not re-registered during at least one of the above registration periods, DHS says you should file now and explain your reasons for filing late. You can also contact an immigration attorney to discuss further options you may have.

 

Nicaragua

I am from Nicaragua and currently have TPS. Do I need to re-register?

Current beneficiaries under the TPS designation for Nicaragua do not need to re-register to maintain TPS if they properly re-registered for TPS during one of the following registration periods for Nicaragua:

  • 15, 2017, through Feb. 13, 2018
  • May 16 through July 15, 2016

I am from Nicaragua and do not currently have TPS, may I apply?

Unfortunately, no. This extension only applies to people who currently have TPS under the Nicaragua designation. Please contact an immigration attorney to discuss further options you may have.

 

Sudan

I am from Sudan and currently have TPS. Do I need to re-register?

No. Current beneficiaries under the 2013 Sudan TPS designation do not need to re-register to maintain TPS.

If you are a beneficiary of TPS under the April 2022 Sudan designation, this extension does not impact you. Your TPS is still valid. You do not need to re-register. Your EAD is still valid until October 19, 2023.

I am from Sudan, and I currently have TPS under the 2013 designation. Should I apply for TPS under the new April 2022 designation?

Maybe. You are allowed to apply under the more recent designation of Sudan in 2022 and if granted, you will retain TPS in accordance with their grants regardless of any potential end to the Ramos injunction. Talk to an immigration attorney to further discuss your specific situation.

I am from Sudan and do not have TPS. Can I apply?

Yes. You may register for TPS under the April 2022 designation. You need to apply before October 19, 2023.

 

Get Help

The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM) provides free immigration legal services to low-income immigrants in a variety of immigration matters. For more information about how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.ilcm.org or call us at 1-800-223-1368.

ILCM Opens Office in Fargo, North Dakota

In 2022, ILCM entered into a contract with the state of North Dakota to provide services to refugees, asylees, and Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders in the Fargo area. ILCM supports these clients with obtaining green cards and ultimately citizenship. ILCM was invited to assist in North Dakota because, currently, there are no other providers of free or low-cost immigration legal services supporting refugee green card cases in North Dakota.

ILCM Fact Sheet – Fargo

LOCATION: 1323 23rd St. Suite C, S. Fargo, ND 58103.

HOURS: Mondays and Tuesdays, 9am – 4pm

WHAT WE DO: Services are provided free of charge to ORR (Office of Refugee Resettlement) funded populations – refugees, asylees (those who hold approved asylum status), Cuban parolees, Afghan parolees, and Ukrainian parolees

We assist these clientele with:

  1. Adjustment of status (I-485 green card application)
  2. Citizenship application (N-400)
  3. Employment authorization card (I-765) initial or replacement
  4. I-90 application to replace lost or stolen green card

 

HOW TO CONTACT US: Individuals seeking assistance are required to make appointments by calling 651-641-1011 ext. 204 or by email turdukan.tostokova@ilcm.org

According to the American Immigration Council, roughly 5% of North Dakota’s population was born in another country, while another 5% are native-born U.S. citizens with at least one immigrant parent. Immigrants are an integral part of the North Dakota workforce in a range of occupations. In 2018, 25,558 immigrant workers comprised 6% of the labor force (American Immigration Council).
Immigrants also play a key role in the economy. According to a recent InForum article (“Fargo-Moorhead area employers urged to invest in refugee, immigrant workers,” 2021), new Americans in the region paid $13.8 million in state and local taxes in 2014 and contributed $542.8 million to the region’s gross domestic product.

ILCM’s office in Fargo becomes our sixth office.

 

Fact Sheet: Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopia

This fact sheet is current as of October 25, 2022. 

Printable PDF version.

On Friday, October 21, 2022, Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro N. Mayorkas, announced a new Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Ethiopia for 18 months. Secretary Mayorkas made the decision to protect “Ethiopian nationals currently residing in the U.S. who cannot safely return due to conflict-related violence and a humanitarian crisis involving severe food shortages, flooding, drought, and displacement.” 

What is temporary protected status (TPS)? 

TPS is granted by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to eligible foreign-born individuals who are unable to return home safely due to conditions or circumstances preventing their return to their home country. 

During the designated TPS period, TPS holders are not removable from the United States and not detainable by DHS based on their immigration status. TPS holders are eligible for an employment authorization document (EAD), and eligible for travel authorization. 

What does the designation of TPS for Ethiopia mean? 

This new designation enables Ethiopian nationals and individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in Ethiopia, who have continuously resided in the United States since October 20, 2022, to file initial applications for TPS. 

Who is eligible for TPS under the Ethiopian designation? 

Ethiopian nationals and individuals without nationality who last regularly lived in Ethiopia, who currently live in the United States, may file initial applications for TPS. Individuals must prove that they resided continuously in the United States since October 20, 2022. 

Other eligibility criteria will be detailed in a Federal Register notice. All individuals applying for TPS undergo security and background checks as part of determining eligibility. The Federal Register notice will also explain the eligibility criteria applicants must meet and describe procedures necessary to submit an initial TPS application and apply for work authorization documentation. 

Is TPS status given automatically? 

No, TPS is not automatic. People must apply, pay a filing fee, and pass immigration screening. The application process can be complicated, and we recommend contacting a licensed immigration attorney. 

How long will eligible individuals have protection under TPS? 

TPS is a temporary status. The Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas is designating Ethiopia for TPS for an 18-month period, beginning on October 20, 2022 and will remain in effect for 18 months. That said, TPS status can be extended. 

I am from Ethiopia, and the police have given me tickets here. Can I apply for TPS? 

Maybe. You need to show your tickets to an immigration lawyer before filing. A person with two misdemeanors or one felony cannot get TPS. A lawyer can tell you if the tickets will be a problem. 

I am from Ethiopia, and I am in deportation proceedings. Can I apply for TPS to avoid deportation? 

Yes. A person in removal proceedings can apply for TPS and, if approved, can request that the judge put the removal case on hold until TPS is approved, and then for the time it is in effect. 

Does TPS Status provide a path to permanent residency? 

No, TPS does not provide a path to lawful permanent resident status. However, some TPS holders may be independently eligible to adjust status through a family-based, employment-based, or other legal avenue. Please consult with an immigration lawyer regarding this issue. 

Get Help 

The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM) provides free immigration legal services to low-income immigrants in a variety of immigration matters. For more information about how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.ilcm.org or call us at (651) 641-1011. 

DACA: Preguntas Frecuentes 

*Translator’s Note: I have used “advance parole” rather than translate the term into Spanish as the translation depends on the context in which a person is using the legal mechanism. I have used the English term to preserve the legal meaning and be consistent throughout the FAQ. 

DACA: Preguntas Frecuentes 

https://www.ilcm.org/latest-news/daca-frequently-asked-questions/ 

Esta hoja está actualizada a partir del 17 de noviembre de 2024. No pretende ser un asesoramiento legal integral. 

Versión PDF imprimible de esta hoja.
Haga click aquí para esta hoja informativa en español. 

 

Última actualización 17/01/2025 La Corte de Apelaciones del Quinto Circuito se pronunció sobre el caso que impugna la legalidad de DACA. Este caso desafió la regulación federal que establece DACA, que fue formalizada por la administración de Biden en agosto de 2022, con una fecha de vigencia del 31 de octubre de 2022. El tribunal de Distrito dijo que esa regulación es ilegal.

El Quinto Circuito decidió que la decisión del tribunal de distrito era en parte correcta y en parte necesita mayor consideración. El Quinto Circuito devolvió el caso al tribunal de distrito para que siguiera estudiándolo. El tribunal de distrito puede reconsiderar el caso en la devolución y emitir otras resoluciones.

El Quinto Circuito también preservó la suspensión que permite a los actuales titulares de DACA continuar en ese estatus y renovar su estatus.

La decisión del Quinto Circuito puede ser apelada ante la Corte Suprema de los Estados Unidos.

Una larga línea de desafíos legales a DACA se remonta al intento de la administración Trump de poner fin a DACA en 2017. Para obtener más información sobre los desafíos legales a lo largo de los años, consulte Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia (DACA).

   

¿Ya tengo DACA. Cómo me afecta esta decisión? 

Según la decisión, las personas con DACA todavía tienen el estatus de DACA y pueden continuar renovando su DACA por ahora. Consulte con un abogado de inmigración calificado sobre su situación particular. 

Soy elegible para DACA, pero aún no he presentado mi solicitud inicial. ¿Puedo presentar una solicitud? 

Según la decisión, USCIS aún puede aceptar aplicaciones iniciales de DACA, pero USCIS no puede aprobarlas. Consulte con un abogado de inmigración calificado sobre su situación particular. 

Soy elegible para DACA y envié mi aplicación inicial. ¿Ahora qué? 

Las solicitudes iniciales de DACA están en espera. En este momento, no se aprobarán nuevas solicitudes de DACA. Las decisiones judiciales impiden que USCIS apruebe nuevos casos de DACA. Esto significa que todas las personas que han presentado una solicitud inicial de DACA (es decir, aquellos que nunca tuvieron DACA y están solicitando por primera vez, o aquellos cuyo DACA ha caducado por más de un año) y no han recibido una aprobación de USCIS tendrán su aplicación retenida. Esto se aplica a todos los casos iniciales que no fueron aprobados antes del 16 de Julio de 2021. 

Tenía DACA, pero mi DACA se venció. ¿Puedo renovarlo?  

Eso depende de cuánto tiempo ha pasado desde que se venció su DACA.  

Si envía una solicitud de DACA más de un año después de que su última concesión de DACA expiró, o después de que se canceló su concesión de DACA más reciente (en cualquier momento), su solicitud se considerará una solicitud inicial, no una renovación, según la política de USCIS. 

USCIS puede aceptar solicitudes iniciales de DACA, pero tiene prohibido aprobarlas mientras esta orden judicial siga en vigor. Se le enviará un aviso de recibo y se aceptará su pago. Sin embargo, la solicitud no se procesará más, de conformidad con la orden judicial. 

Consulte con abogado de inmigración calificado sobre su situación particular. 

¿Tengo DACA y recibí Advance Parole. Cómo me afecta esta decisión? 

Esta decisión no se refiere a Advance Parole. Consulte con un abogado de inmigración antes de decidir salir de los EE. UU. 

¿Dónde puedo llamar si tengo DACA y quiero renovar? 

Comuníquese con ILCM al 1-800-223-1368 los lunes de las 10am hasta la 1pm, los martes de la 1pm hasta las 4pm, los miércoles de las 10am hasta la 1pm, y los jueves desde las 3pm hasta las 6pm para asistencia. 

¿Dónde puedo encontrar apoyo para la salud mental? 

United We Dream ha creado un conjunto de herramientas para apoyar la salud mental. Consulte este sitio web para revisar sus recursos: Mental Health Toolkit | United We Dream    

Para obtener servicios de consejería, puede comunicarse con el centro de consejería sin cita previa para obtener servicios gratuitos (por teléfono o en línea). Consulte su sitio web para obtener información: https://walkin.org/counseling-services/locations-hours/ 

Si quiere una cita en español por favor llame a 612-870-0565 x2. 

¿Dónde puedo obtener más información actualizada sobre DACA? 

Para mantenerse al día sobre los últimos avances con DACA y otras cuestiones de inmigración, siga ILCM en Facebook y Instagram.  

¿Como puede el tribunal de apelaciones declarar ilegal a DACA cuando la Corte Suprema lo salvó en el 2020? 

La respuesta es complicada y confusa.  

En el 2020, se la pidió a la Corte Suprema que respondiera una pregunta principal: ¿el presidente Trump siguió los requisitos de la ley cuando terminó DACA? La Corte Suprema respondió que no.  

Pero, en ese caso, no se le pidió a la Corte Suprema que respondiera y no respondió la pregunta: ¿el presidente Obama cumplió con los requisitos de la ley cuando creó DACA? Esta pregunta se hizo en el caso que estaba ante la corte de apelaciones, y la respuesta del tribunal de primera instancia y el tribunal de apelaciones fue “no, el presidente Obama no siguió los requisitos de la ley cuando creó DACA.” 

¿Que está pasando ahora?  

El caso actual impugna la regulación federal que establece DACA, emitido por la administración Biden, planteando la cuestión de si DACA es legal. El tribunal del Distrito respondió: “no, DACA no es legal.” Ahora la corte de apelaciones del quinto circuito se pronunciará. Luego eso será apelado ante la Corte Suprema de EE.UU.  

Defend the Dream: Take Action to Support DREAMers today!

Yesterday, an appellate court in Texas upheld a lower court ruling that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is illegal. For now, current DACA holders can continue to renew DACA, but it is uncertain for how long. Moreover, young people who became eligible for the program after 2017, and young people who entered the country after the cut-off date for the program have no protection while this legal and policy nightmare continues. No protection from deportation. No right to work. No way to move forward with their education, their careers, and their lives.

Today, we ask you to join us in taking action. Let us channel our anger, frustration, and sadness into supporting Minnesota’s 5,000 DACA holders and the thousands of Minnesota immigrant youth who have been unable to apply for the program because of the litigation that has ensued since the Trump administration attempted to end the program in 2017.

Congress must act, but it will only act if members know that supporting DREAMers is a top priority for their constituents. Call your Senators. Call your Congressional Representative. Tell them that Congress should immediately pass a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and immigrant youth.

The litigation regarding the DACA program is not over. DACA was instituted by the Obama administration in 2012 through a memorandum, and the district court and the appellate court found that the program was unlawful because administration  did not go through the official process required by the Administrative Procedures Act (APA). Since the district court’s decision in July 2021, DHS went through this process. DHS issued draft regulations establishing the DACA program, went through the official public feedback process, and issued final regulations at the end of the summer that go into effect on October 31.

The appeals court acknowledged this development and sent the case back to federal district court judge Andrew S. Hanen, to review these regulations and decide whether they should change the conclusion that the DACA program is unlawful.

Learn more about this decision and what it means for current DACA recipients and immigrant youth in ILCM’s Frequently Asked Questions Fact Sheet.

Call your Senators. Call your Congressional Representative. Tell them that Congress should immediately pass a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and immigrant youth.

Suggested message:

As your constituent, I am calling to ask that you swiftly pass a pathway to citizenship for all DREAMers. They are valuable members of our community, who work, study, and pay taxes. They deserve a secure place in our community.

The undocumented community needs permanent relief from the violence, cruelty, and inhumanity of deportation.

Dreamers make vital contributions to our communities. Over the next decade, Dreamers who currently have DACA will contribute an estimated $433.4 billion to the GDP if they can continue to work legally in the U.S. They play an essential role in our economy and post-pandemic recovery: nearly 30,000 DACA recipients work in health care across the U.S., and around one million DACA recipients and other Dreamers are essential workers.

DREAMERs make our communities better.

Please act today to support Minnesota’s 5,000 DACA holders and the thousands of Minnesota immigrant youth who have been unable to apply for the program. I urge you to support legislation that offers a pathway to permanent status for DACA recipients and other Dreamers.

Congress Must Act Now: A Call to Action for DACA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: 
Veena Iyer, Executive Director, Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota
veena.iyer@ilcm.org  (651) 641-1011 

Congress Must Act Now: A Call to Action for DACA 

October 6, 2022—Yesterday evening, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals decided the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is unlawful. The decision came in the context of a review of a July 2021 district court decision.  

Significantly for current DACA holders, the appeals court allowed the Biden administration to continue processing and approving renewal applications while the litigation continues. However, hundreds of thousands of immigrant youth who have become eligible since 2017 and others who were never able to apply remain locked out of the program.  

“My heart and that of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM) goes to all of the DACA holders and DACA eligible youth across the country, particularly those here in Minnesota who are our neighbors, coworkers, and friends,” said ILCM executive director Veena Iyer. “But this is not the end. We will not give up. DACA is not enough. DACA has offered a lifeline to over 800,000 young people, but it is only a temporary and limited fix. Congress and the Biden administration must act to fulfill their promises and provide a path to citizenship for Dreamers, who contribute so much to our country and communities.”

Importantly, the litigation regarding the DACA program is not over. DACA was instituted by the Obama administration in 2012 through a memorandum, and the district court and the appellate court found that the program was unlawful because administration  did not go through the official process required by the Administrative Procedures Act (APA). Since the district court’s decision in July 2021, DHS went through this process. DHS issued draft regulations establishing the DACA program, went through the official public feedback process, and issued final regulations at the end of the summer that go into effect on October 31.    

The appeals court acknowledged this development and sent the case back to federal district court judge Andrew S. Hanen, to review these regulations and decide whether they should change the conclusion that the DACA program is unlawful. 

“This back and forth with people’s lives is unbearable,” said Iyer. “But in the face of this unbearable pain, what I can assure you is: 

  • ILCM will continue to make sure that everyone who is still eligible DACA and our services can continue to get assistance filing renewals. 
  • ILCM will continue to spread the word to our community so that everyone understands the decision, its implications, and how they can take action to support DACA recipients, immigrant youth, and our work with DACA recipients  
  • ILCM will continue to advocate for DACA and the creation of a pathway to citizenship.” 

If you currently have DACA and would like to renew, please call ILCM at 1-800-223-1368 on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9am-1pm, Tuesdays from 1pm-4pm, and on Thursdays from 3pm to 7pm for assistance. 

DACA: Frequently Asked Questions

This Frequently Asked Questions page is current as of January 31, 2025. It is not legal advice.  

Printable PDF version of this Frequently Asked Questions sheet.
Haga click aquí para esta hoja informativa en español.  

 

Latest Update 01/17/2025 The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on the case challenging the legality of DACA. This case challenged the federal regulation establishing DACA, which was formalized by the Biden administration in August 2022, with an effective date of October 31, 2022. The district court said that regulation is illegal.

The Fifth Circuit decided that the district court decision was partly right and partly needs further consideration. The Fifth Circuit sent the case back to the district court for further consideration. The district court may reconsider the case on remand and issue other rulings.

The Fifth Circuit also preserved the stay that allows present DACA holders to continue in that status and to renew their status.

The Fifth Circuit decision may be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

A long line of legal challenges to DACA dates back to the Trump administration’s attempt to end DACA in 2017. For more information on the legal challenges over the years, see  Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

 

I already have DACA. How do the ongoing legal cases affect me?  

According to the decision, DACA holders still have DACA status and can continue to renew their DACA status for now. Consult with a qualified immigration lawyer about your particular situation.  

I am eligible for DACA, but I have not yet submitted my initial application. Can I apply?  

According to the decision, USCIS can still accept initial DACA applications, but USCIS cannot approve them. Consult with a qualified immigration lawyer about your particular situation.   

I am eligible for DACA, and I submitted my initial application. Now what?  

Initial DACA applications are on hold. No new DACA first time applications will be approved at this time. Court decisions block USCIS from approving any new DACA cases. This means that all people who have submitted a DACA initial application, (i.e., those that never had DACA and are applying for the first time, or those whose DACA has lapsed for over one year) and have not received an approval from USCIS, will have their application held. This applies to all initial cases that were not approved before July 16, 2021.  

I had DACA, but my DACA expired. Can I renew my DACA?   

That depends on how long it has been since your DACA expired. 

If you submit a DACA request more than one year since your last grant of DACA expired or after your most recent DACA grant was terminated (at any time), your request is considered an initial request, not a renewal, under USCIS policy.  

USCIS can accept initial DACA requests, but it cannot approve them while this court order remains in effect. You will be issued a receipt notice, and your payment will be accepted. However, the request will not be further processed, in compliance with the court order.   

Consult with a qualified immigration lawyer about your particular situation.  

I have DACA and received Advance Parole. How do the court challenges affect me?  

This decision does not address Advance Parole. Please consult with a qualified immigration lawyer before you decide to leave the U.S.   

Where can I call if I have DACA and want to file to renew?   

Please call ILCM at 1-800-223-1368 on Mondays 9am-1pm, Tuesdays 1-4pm, Wednesdays 9am -1pm, and Thursdays 3pm-7pm for assistance.  

Where can I find mental health support?  

United We Dream has created a tool kit to support mental health. Please see this website to review their resources: Mental Health Toolkit | United We Dream   

For counseling services, you can contact the Walk-In Counseling Center for free remote (phone or on-line) services. See their website for information: https://walkin.org/counseling-services/locations-hours/  If you want an appointment in Spanish, please call 612-870-0565 x2.  

Where can I get more updates about DACA?  

To keep up with the latest developments on DACA and other immigration issues, follow ILCM on Facebook and Instagram

How can the appeals court declare DACA unlawful when the Supreme Court saved DACA in 2020?  

This answer is complicated and confusing.  

In 2020, the Supreme Court was asked to answer one main question: “Did President Trump follow the requirements of the law when he ended DACA?” The Supreme Court answered that question “no.”  

At that time, the Supreme Court was not asked to answer and did not answer the question: “Did President Obama follow the requirements of the law when he created DACA?” This question was asked in the case that was before the appeals court, and the answer from the lower court and the appeals court was “No, President Obama did not follow the requirements of the law when he created DACA.”  

What is happening now?  

The current case challenges the federal regulation establishing DACA, issued by the Biden administration, posing the question of whether DACA is legal. The district court answered “No, DACA is not legal.” Now the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will make a ruling. Then that ruling may be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.  

Green Cards for the Family

Congratulations to our clients on getting their green cards!

ILCM began working with this family nine years ago when the father, Eh Kay, applied for legal permanent residence and later citizenship. We continued to work with him when he applied to bring his family to the United States. Kay’s ILCM attorney petitioned for his wife and son, but they were unable to leave the refugee camp in Thailand to get to an appointment at the U.S. embassy. Despite repeated attempts from the ILCM attorney, the U.S. embassy wouldn’t allow the process to move forward without their physical presence. With no other options, the case stalled for a long time.

After eight long years working to reunite this family, thanks to the refugee program and tireless advocacy, we were able to unite the family in Minnesota through the refugee process. After one year, we worked on adjusting their status and just this fall, the mother and son received their green cards!

Since Kay was already a U.S. citizen, and his son is under 18 years old, he derived citizenship from his father as soon as he received his card. Their daughter was born in the United States and his wife only needs to wait for a couple years before she can apply for U.S. citizenship as well, then all of their family will have a country to call their own.

We are honored to be part of this family’s immigration story and grateful to our partners and allies for helping us throughout this process – so many levels of the immigration system were used in this family’s reunification! We are also grateful to Kay and his consistent contributions as a frontline worker during the global pandemic.

Fact Sheet: Temporary Protected Status for Burma (Myanmar) (9.26.2022)

This fact sheet is current as of 9.26.2022. It is not legal advice.

Printable PDF of this fact sheet.

On Monday, September 26, 2022, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced an extension of the current Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma for an additional 18 months, from November 26, 2022, through May 25, 2024, due to extraordinary and temporary conditions in Burma that prevent individuals from safely returning. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a redesignation of Burma for TPS for the same reason, allowing Burmese nationals (and individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Burma) residing in the United States as of September 25, 2022, to be eligible for TPS. 

TPS for Burma was originally designated on Friday, March 12, 2021, for 18 months through November 25, 2022.  

What is temporary protected status (TPS)? 

The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants TPS to individuals from designated countries who are unable to return home safely due to conditions or circumstances in their home countries.  

During the designated TPS period, TPS holders are allowed to live in the United States and cannot be detained by DHS just on the basis of their immigration status. TPS holders are eligible to apply for an employment authorization document (EAD) and for travel authorization.  

What does the extension of TPS for Burma (Myanmar) mean? 

If you have TPS under the current designation for Burma, you can apply to extend TPS. To receive the TPS extension, you must re-register for TPS by applying during the 60-day re-registration period from September 27, 2022 through November 26, 2022. If approved, your TPS and EAD will be extended until May 25, 2024.   

Note: It is important for TPS holders to re-register during the registration period. Do not wait until your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expires. This could result in gaps in your employment authorization documentation. 

What does the re-designation of TPS for Burma (Myanmar) mean? 

This new designation enables citizens of Burma and individuals without nationality to file applications for TPS if (1) they were living in Burma (Myanmar) right before coming to the US, and (2) they have resided continuously in the United States since September 25, 2022. If you left for any reason, talk to an immigration attorney.  

The initial registration period for new applicants under the Burma TPS redesignation begins on September 27, 2022 and will remain in effect through May 25, 2024. Other eligibility requirements are described in the Federal Register Notice (FRN) 

When can I apply for TPS for Burma? 

If you currently have Burmese TPS: Under Burmese TPS, the re-registration period for current TPS for Burma holders is from September 27, 2022 through November 26, 2022. 

If you are applying for Burmese TPS the first time: The initial registration period for new applicants under the Burma TPS redesignation begins on September 27, 2022 and will remain in effect through May 25, 2024. 

How long will I have protection under TPS for Burma? 

The designation period determines how long TPS and the protections under TPS are valid. TPS is a temporary status. The Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas is extending Burma (Myanmar) for TPS for until May 25, 2024. TPS status can, however, be extended. 

Who is eligible for TPS under the Burma (Myanmar) designation? 

Burmese nationals who do not have legal status in another country, and people without nationality who last regularly lived in Burma (Myanmar) and who currently live in the United States may file applications for TPS. They will have to prove that they resided continuously in the United States as of November 26, 2022. 

People interested in TPS must file an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services by November 26, 2022 if they are re-registering, or by May 25, 2024 if they are initial applicants. They may also apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and for travel authorization. All individuals applying for TPS undergo security and background checks as part of determining eligibility. More details about the eligibility criteria to submit an initial TPS application and apply for an EAD can be found in the Federal Register Notice (FRN).  

Is TPS status given automatically? 

No, TPS is not automatic. People must apply, pay a filing fee, and pass immigration screening. There are some facts that will make a person ineligible for TPS.  For example, people with certain criminal convictions or who violated the human rights of others are not eligible for TPS.  People who are inadmissible under certain sections of the law may have to file a waiver before they can be approved for TPS status.  The application process can be complicated, and we recommend working with an immigration attorney.  

I have been in the United States since before September 25, 2022, but I have left for short periods of time.  Can I apply for TPS?   

Maybe. Whether you still qualify for TPS depends on the length and nature of your time outside of the United States. Please contact an immigration attorney to discuss your situation further.   

I am from Burma (Myanmar), and I came to the United States as a refugee. Do I need to apply for TPS?  

No. People who are in the US with refugee status can live and work here and apply for permanent resident status after one year. They do not require TPS.  

I am from Burma (Myanmar), and I now have a green card. Do I need to apply for TPS?  

No. As a permanent resident, you have legal status in the US and are on a path to citizenship. You do not need and would not qualify for TPS.  

I am from Burma (Myanmar), and I am in deportation proceedings. Can I apply for TPS to avoid deportation?  

Yes. A person in removal proceedings can apply for TPS, and if approved, can request that the judge put the removal case on hold until TPS is approved, and then for the time it is in effect.  

I am from Burma (Myanmar), and the police have given me tickets here. Can I apply for TPS?  

Maybe. You need to show your tickets to an immigration lawyer before filing. A person with two misdemeanors or one felony cannot get TPS. A lawyer can tell you if the tickets will be a problem.  

Which people from Burma (Myanmar) should consider applying for TPS?  

People who are here with no legal status should consider applying. Also, those who are here on a visa that is for a limited time or that does not allow for working might also benefit by receiving Temporary Protected Status. Having TPS does not hurt anything.  

*If you are from Burma (Myanmar) and came to the United States on a F1 student visa, contact your school’s international student office for more information. 

Get Help 

The Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM) provides free immigration legal services to low-income immigrants in a variety of immigration matters. For more information about how we can assist you, please visit our website at www.ilcm.org or call us at (651) 641-1011.